The Giants Beat Mock Draft: Round One

One of the players that the Giants may be eyeing with their first round draft pick is Clemson DE Shaq Lawson. Although the Giants re-signed Jason Pierre Paul and went out and acquired Olivier Vernon for top dollar, Lawson still makes sense here as the best defensive player available on the board. Lawson measures in at 6’3, 270 lbs and is built like a tank. He was a force on defense for the Tigers last year, helping his team to an undefeated regular season and a berth in the national championship game. Lawson had a breakout season in 2015, recording 25.5 tackles for loss to go along with 12.5 sacks. Lawson is a versatile talent who can play defensive end as well as outside linebacker and would be a nice fit in Steve Spagnuolo’s defensive system.

Of all the players that could very well be available, Ronnie Stanley, offensive tackle out of Notre Dame seems to be the best pick. Stanley would fit a need at tackle, and would still likely be the best available player. Ronnie Stanley is a very strong pass blocker and has the size and length to be a perennial pro bowl tackle if he can work on some of his technique. Laremy Tunsil seems to be the top tackle, but he will likely be off the board within the first three picks. It isn’t a flashy pick, but after the departures of Geoff Schwartz and Will Beatty, the Giants look like they need to solidify the offensive line, and Ronnie Stanley will certainly be able to do so.

The Giants added many new playmakers on the defensive side of the ball in free agency, so now it is time to help Eli Manning. Sticking with the star-studded agenda that GM Jerry Reese is implementing, Ole Miss wide receiver Laquon Treadwell should be the target for the Giants in the first round. Reese jumped on Odell Beckham Jr. and with that pick obviously working out well. Treadwell would make an immediate impact taking the spot of Rueben Randle. He is as reliable as they come getting open off the line and making catches through contact. With Victor Cruz in the slot at full health and Beckham Jr. continuing to tear down records, Treadwell would act as another dangerous target for Manning and the Giants to exploit in 2016.